Prevalence and Associated Factors of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting among Pediatric Patients Undergoing Elective Surgery under General Anesthesia at Addis Ababa Public Hospital in 2021/22: A Multi-Center Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Post-operative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV) is a common and distressing complication following surgical procedures, affecting up to 70% of paediatric patients. PONV can lead to delayed recovery, increased hospital stay, and reduced patient satisfaction, posing a significant burden on healthcare systems. In the paediatric population, PONV is particularly concerning due to the potential risk of aspiration, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.

Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study method was carried out, with study population of 186 surgical pediatrics patient populations from December 1, 2021 to May 30, 2022. The magnitude of pediatrics population was evaluated according to specific criteria encompassing sociodemographic and preoperative pediatrics characteristics, intraoperative, and postoperative characteristics of paediatrics PONV.

Results: The magnitude of pediatrics PONV in PACU and Ward identified with their associated risk factors of perioperative anxiety, motion sickness and long duration of surgery and anesthesia.

Conclusion: The magnitude of paediatrics PONV at Addis Ababa Public Hospital is 12%. Using opioid for postoperative management is not related to paediatrics PONV in our study. Reduction strategy as well as prevention and treatment are vital for enhancing paediatrics patient safety and perioperative care quality.

Author(s): Desta Waktasu*

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